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Local Scout’s efforts supported at Dunbar Fun Run

Tony Centonze, For The Leaf-Chronicle
3:36 p.m. CDT August 9, 2014

Nathan Parris, right, had the honor of announcing the start of Saturday’s Trail Run, a fundraiser he organized to fund the construction of a 48-foot boardwalk along Dunbar Cave’s Recovery Trail.
(Photo:
FOR THE LEAF-CHRONICLE/TONY CENTONZE
)

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – More than 30 walkers and runners took to the trails of Dunbar Cave early Saturday morning to support Nathan Parris in his Eagle Scout project, a 48-foot boardwalk along Recovery Trail.

Parris was looking for an idea for a fundraising project, one of the necessary steps toward acheiving the rank of Eagle Scout. Park Ranger Alan Fenoseth recommended the construction of a boardwalk along the trail, which will help preserve the trail and promote safety on the heavily traveled path.

Parris, now 15 years old, is a student at Rossview High School. He has been in Scouting since first grade. “I contacted Alan in April,” said Parris. “Then, I had to submit a proposal. Once it was approved, I began lining up volunteers and food donations. The last step was to schedule a date and then promote the event.”

The event will help Parris meet the requirement of organizing a service project, one of the many steps necessary to reach his goal. Nathan’s dad, Scott Parris, has been involved in Scouting with his son. He explained a little about the program.

“Boy Scouts of America is the largest youth development program in the world,” said Scott Parris. “Along the way, they learn about personal fitness, cooking, enviornmental science, emergency preparedness, family life, community involvement and so much more.”

Nathan Parris showed poise and leadership as he welcomed the participants, organized his volunteers and thanked his sponsors. Parris, along with the other members of BSA Troop 365, will continue their fundraising efforts and hope to build the boardwalk in September.